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Bill

S 16

An act relating to infant changing stations in restrooms in public buildings and places of public accommodation

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Alison Clarkson and 4 co-sponsors

The bill requires public restrooms in public buildings and places of accommodation to provide infant changing stations to improve access and caregiver convenience.

Read 1st time & referred to Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 16

Bill Summary: S.16 (2025-2026) – Vermont

Title

An act relating to infant changing stations in restrooms in public buildings and places of public accommodation

Purpose and Intent

  • The bill aims to ensure that infant changing stations are available in restrooms located in public buildings and places of public accommodation.
  • It seeks to promote child health, safety, and family convenience by mandating accessible infant changing facilities in applicable facilities across the state.

Key Provisions and Changes

  • Requirement for Infant Changing Stations: Public restrooms in buildings and places of public accommodation covered by the bill must provide infant changing stations.
  • Scope of Affected Facilities: Applies to restrooms in public buildings and spaces that serve the public, including facilities used by customers and visitors.
  • Standards and Installation: The bill sets expectations for the presence of infant changing stations, with potential specifications on installation, placement, and accessibility to ensure usability for adults and caregivers.
  • Accessibility Considerations: Provisions are likely to address compliance with accessibility standards (e.g., reach range and space for maneuvering), aligning with general accessibility requirements.
  • Maintenance and Repair: Implicit or explicit expectations for maintenance, cleanliness, and functional safety of changing stations to remain usable for the public.
  • Compliance Timeline: The bill may include a timeline for compliance or phased implementation, specifying effective dates and potential transitional periods for public facilities to upgrade.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Public Entities and Building Owners/Operators: Administrators of public buildings and venues that fall under “public buildings” or “places of public accommodation.”
  • Businesses Serving the Public: Retailers, restaurants, entertainment venues, government facilities, transit hubs, and other spaces accessible to the public.
  • Facility Maintenance and Management Staff: Personnel responsible for restroom upkeep, safety, and compliance with building standards.
  • Infants and Caregivers: State residents who rely on infant changing stations in public restrooms for caregiving needs.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

  • Introductory Status: The bill had its first reading and was referred to the Committee on Economic Development, Housing and General Affairs on January 17, 2025.
  • Next Steps in Committee: The committee will evaluate the bill, potentially hold hearings, and consider amendments before reporting it back to the full legislature.
  • Potential Implementation Timeline: If enacted, the bill would likely specify an effective date and any phased compliance schedule for existing facilities versus new construction or major renovations.

Potential Impacts and Considerations

  • Public Convenience and Health: Improves access to essential infant care facilities, supporting families with young children.
  • Operational Costs: May require capital expenditures for installation and ongoing maintenance, particularly for older facilities or venues undergoing updates.
  • Enforcement and Compliance: The bill may establish enforcement mechanisms or penalties for noncompliance, though specific enforcement details are not provided in the summary we have.
  • Equity and Accessibility: Aligns with inclusive design principles, benefiting caregivers regardless of gender, age, or physical ability.

Note: This summary reflects the information provided in the bill description and action history. For precise statutory language, definitions, exemptions, and exact compliance deadlines, refer to the official bill text and any committee amendments adopted during the legislative process.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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